50 Leaders Give Their Rx for Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor, Pt. VII
Editor’s Note: We asked Pittsburgh leaders to give their prescriptions for Mayor Corey O’Connor on how to build a bright future for Pittsburgh. Their answers follow.
Previously in this series: 50 Leaders Give Their Rx for Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor, Pt. VI
Alex Dick, Co-Founder, Dick Building Company
Divisiveness dominates national politics while capital and talent quietly seek the opposite: opportunity with stability and prosperity with purpose. Pittsburgh can redeploy its civic capital to deliver both. We possess distinct advantages: foundation resources rivaling cities three times our size, anchor institutions driving billions in economic activity, civic engagement that delivers, and a scale small enough to coordinate. Too often, these strengths operate in parallel, rather than in concert. Mayor O’Connor can change that. Pittsburgh transformed under Mellon and Lawrence not because reforms were novel, but because civic power aligned around shared outcomes, sustained commitment, and execution. Corey O’Connor enters office with a reservoir of goodwill as national attention returns and major commitments signal confidence. If he convenes that civic power now, Pittsburgh can become something rare: a region where harmony, predictable stability, and economic advantage reinforce one another. Investment and talent follow.
Carey Harris, CEO, Literacy Pittsburgh
Mayor O’Connor’s administration has a powerful opportunity to make Pittsburgh a place where everyone can build their families and their futures. One way to achieve this is by harnessing the strength of the region’s education and workforce systems. Adult literacy, English language learning, and workforce training remain essential for thousands of residents who want to fully participate in civic life and contribute to the regional economy. Digital skills are also a high priority; many learners still lack reliable internet access, devices, or the ability to navigate online systems for employment, health care, and public services. Investing in digital literacy initiatives will help close this divide and broaden opportunity. Supporting immigrant and refugee integration through language access and welcoming policies further strengthens our social and economic fabric. When newcomers can thrive, Pittsburgh grows stronger and moves closer to a future where shared prosperity is possible for everyone. Prioritizing these needs ensures that Pittsburgh remains vibrant and becomes a city for all people.
Tim Knavish, PPG Chairman & CEO
Pittsburgh is entering an exciting new chapter, which will require business, government and community leadership to work together to shape its future. We look forward to working with Mayor Corey O’Connor and his administration on ways to create a stronger, more connected Pittsburgh. Fostering a pro-business environment that accelerates innovation will ensure that Pittsburgh remains competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
Becky Kcehowski, Partner-in-Charge, Jones Day Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh enters this administration with uncommon advantages: world-class universities and health care, global leadership in robotics and AI, deep manufacturing expertise, and abundant energy resources for both resilience and innovation. The challenge is not identifying assets but activating them through a focused strategy that upgrades infrastructure, ensures affordability, and better connects neighborhoods to opportunity. A strong Downtown should once again function as the region’s economic and civic anchor. Rebuilding momentum in the office market will require targeted incentives, adaptable zoning, and steady leadership that offers clarity and confidence to employers and investors that Pittsburgh is a reliable partner. Just as important is creating a city where the next generation chooses to build careers, companies, and communities — to stay, create, and lead. Clean streets, safe and active public spaces, dependable transit, and visible stewardship are essential foundations for workers, residents, and visitors and reflect pride in Pittsburgh and confidence in its future.
Mark Opitz, Managing Partner, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh stands at a promising moment of civic reinvention, with an opportunity to build on its leadership in AI, robotics, and advanced innovation to create a more vibrant urban future. A key priority for the mayor could be strengthening confidence in Downtown by continuing its evolution from a 9-to-5 employment center into a mixed-use neighborhood that attracts workers, residents, students, and visitors throughout the entire week.
To advance that vision, the mayor should give consideration to public safety, cleanliness, and mobility, along with creative reuse of underutilized office space for housing, emerging companies, and cultural activity. Equally important is sending a clear, consistent signal that Pittsburgh welcomes investment and partnership. Regulatory predictability, efficient approvals, and strong collaboration among the city, employers, institutions, and neighboring communities can help align development with market realities. By pairing economic ambition with quality of life, the city’s leadership can position Downtown — and the city — as confident, innovative, and open for growth.
David J. Malone, Chairman & CEO, Gateway Financial
I am expecting big things from Corey, and it is abundantly clear to me that he understands the critical issues facing our region. He has assembled a fantastic team to help him implement much-needed changes, particularly in strengthening our neighborhoods, permits, policing, and economic development.
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending a Steelers game with a friend of mine, who happens to be the CEO of a major company based in Chicago. We had the opportunity to spend some time with both Mayor Corey O’Connor and Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, and my friend was thoroughly impressed with their efforts to encourage him to invest in Pittsburgh. Corey’s pitch was not only informed and professional, but also delivered with great passion.
I am very encouraged by Corey and his team’s professional capacity and look forward to seeing them bring all segments of our community together to move the region forward. Their commitment to positive change and development is truly commendable, and I believe they will make a significant impact.
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